Bringing Communities Together project has transformed student life in the School of Arts, Culture and Language during the 2024–25 academic year. With support from the Bangor Fund, students have enjoyed opportunities that enrich their studies, strengthen employability, and create lasting memories.
At the heart of the initiative are professional masterclasses across creative fields such as filmmaking, music composition, and TV directing. These sessions gave students direct access to industry experts, offering insights far beyond the classroom. One highlight was a workshop with composer John Metcalf, where students discussed his work and gained invaluable understanding of compositional techniques. Another memorable session featured music educator Berwyn Jones, who inspired students with practical approaches to making music education accessible. As Ava, a third‑year student, reflected, “It was so inspiring listening to what he’s done in his career.”
The programme also fostered community through shared experiences. A Food Literacy workshop led by Cegin Y Bobl brought students and staff together to learn breadmaking and sustainable food practices, sparking enthusiasm and calls to make it part of the curriculum. Meanwhile, English literature students visited the John Rylands Library in Manchester, immersing themselves in rare manuscripts and ancient texts. For Hadeel, an MA student, the experience felt “like traveling through time,” creating a powerful connection to history.
Beyond these events, postgraduate researchers benefited from networking opportunities vital for future academic and professional success. Together, these experiences have built confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging that extends well beyond graduation. The project demonstrates how alumni generosity through the Bangor Fund creates a vibrant ecosystem of learning and community. Students leave Bangor not only with a degree, but with professional networks, practical skills, and cherished memories—foundations they will carry into their careers and, in time, support for future generations.
Dr Elena Hristova, project lead and lecturer in Films and Media, said:
As the author of the Bringing Communities Together, I would like to thank the Bangor Fund for their guidance and making this project possible. The faculty of the School of Arts, Culture and Language have designed very worthwhile enhancing experiences for our students, and it has been a privilege to bring those together in the school-wide bid. It has been very rewarding and inspiring to witness our students’ excitement to connect with each other as well as with industry professionals and experts. They have truly taken on the opportunity to build a community within and outside the University and share those experiences and opportunities with the wider alumni community.
Postgraduate researchers presenting their research at academic conferences and developing their professional networks
Undergraduate students attending professional and advanced master classes and practical workshops with experts and practitioners across factual and fiction filmmaking, drama, music writing, conducting and sound recording
Students at applied learning opportunities at archives, film festivals, production studios, museums and workshops
Undergraduate research culture celebrated with the Undergraduate Anthology and a Research Roundtable at the End of Year Showcase
